An awareness campaign is trying to help people see it only takes one person to stop the abuse and neglect of children.

Friday, under the outstretched arms of Sojourner Truth at Monument Park near South Division Street and East Michigan Avenue, a group of about 14 people gathered while wearing blue to take a photo to share at an upcoming rally in Lansing and promote the Power of One, a campaign happening this month.

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month.

The gathering was organized by the Calhoun County Child Abuse/Neglect Prevention Council. Director Megan Mead said when people are aware of abuse, they can make anonymous calls to resources such as a Child Protective Services office but often don't.

"They don't want to do that," Mead said. "They don't want to get involved. They don't realize that one phone call can actually change a child's life."

Council board member Katina Mayes said in Calhoun County, child abuse and neglect happens and needs to be addressed more than it is.

"It's more than just what people think," Mayes said. "A lot of times, neglect can be just not spending quality time with your children or not giving them the bare essentials, what they need to develop and grow."

Mead said the group is holding its annual fundraiser dinner at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. April 24 at Barista Blues Cafe, 91 W. Michigan Ave. For more information, or to connect with services, go to www.calhounprevention.com or call 517-667-1628. Child Abuse Neglect and Prevention Day will be marked with a rally on the steps of the Michigan State Capitol at 11 a.m. Thursday.

Call Andy Fitzpatrick at 966-0697. Follow him on Twitter: @am_fitzpatrick